Kirinyaga County has distributed 150,000 condoms ahead of the sixth Devolution Conference, which will take place at Kirinyaga University from Tuesday to Friday. The event, expected to draw over 6,000 delegates, includes free condom distribution at venues where attendees will be accommodated, according to County Deputy Public Health Officer Peter Irungu.
The initiative has drawn sharp criticism on social media, with users questioning the rationale behind the distribution. One Twitter user wrote, "This country has a problem," while others speculated about the conference's agenda, asking, "What are they advocating for?"
County Governor Ann Waiguru's administration faced scrutiny over the move, with some users suggesting delegates' behavior could reflect on their governance. A commenter noted, "Don't worry, they have put 250 condoms for each delegate. The economy is quite safe from the sexy orgy that is about to commence." Another quipped, "High sex demand tonight at Kirinyaga county after the 6th Devolution Conference. But do not worry. 150,000 condoms have been distributed. Phew! You are safe."
The distribution aligns with broader public health efforts. In February 2018, condoms were provided at Huduma Centres ahead of Valentine’s Day as part of an HIV-AIDS awareness campaign. The initiative involved partnerships with the Aids Healthcare Foundation and National Aids Control Council, with 40,000 Kenyans accessing services daily at Huduma Centres. A survey revealed 60% of users fall between the ages of 18 and 34.
